Find the word definition

The Collaborative International Dictionary
Dendragapus obscurus

Grouse \Grouse\ (grous), n. sing. & pl. [Prob. after the analogy of mouse, mice, fr. the earlier grice, OF. griesche meor hen: cf. F. piegri[`e]che shrike.] (Zo["o]l.) Any of the numerous species of gallinaceous birds of the family Tetraonid[ae], and subfamily Tetraonin[ae], inhabiting Europe, Asia, and North Americ

  1. They have plump bodies, strong, well-feathered legs, and usually mottled plumage. The group includes the ptarmigans ( Lagopus), having feathered feet.

    Note: Among the European species are the red grouse ( Lagopus Scoticus) and the hazel grouse ( Bonasa betulina). See Capercaidzie, Ptarmigan, and Heath grouse. Among the most important American species are the ruffed grouse, or New England partridge ( Bonasa umbellus); the sharp-tailed grouse ( Pedioc[ae]tes phasianellus) of the West; the dusky blue, or pine grouse ( Dendragapus obscurus) of the Rocky Mountains; the Canada grouse, or spruce partridge ( D. Canadensis). See also Prairie hen, and Sage cock. The Old World sand grouse ( Pterocles, etc.) belong to a very different family. See Pterocletes, and Sand grouse.